Beauty: French polish

Lancome Renergie Refill, Day Cream SPF15. Photo / Babiche Martens

Immaculate skincare, regular trips to the salon, good grooming and, most importantly, a quirky feminine elan give Frenchwomen the reputation for elegance par excellence. Tap into that French style by using some of their favourite beauty products.

1 Lancome Renergie Refill, Day Cream SPF15 50ml (on counter July 21) $165
I already love Renergie, now it's been upgraded with extra firming qualities, yet in a light, absorbent cream that leaves skin feeling smooth and supple. Part of new range with serum and anti-wrinkle eye cream.
From selected pharmacies and department stores.

2 YSL French Manicure kit $106
Give yourself an elegant nail job in record time with this easy-to-use pen duo. Paint on a quick-dry white tip with a felt-pen style applicator (blot tip with a tissue first, it does tend to drip), then use the palest pink brush-on nail lacquer for a high-shine finish. Won't last as long as a professional job, but perfect for travel.
From selected pharmacies and department stores.

3 Chanel Aqualumiere Gloss in Bubble Plum $45
If, like me, you find some lipglosses unpleasantly gluggy, you'll love the gel-like sheer texture and gentle shine of this one. It glides on for use alone or over lipstick. In 8 colours and destined to become a classic.
From selected pharmacies and department stores.

4 By Terry Light Expert Perfecting Foundation Brush $140
This is a high-end pioneer of the brush-on foundations that ranges are now introducing. If you already use a brush for foundation or want to paint like a professional, then this wand developed by makeup artist Terry de Gunzberg will appeal. Use where you need it, or build-up for fuller coverage.
From Mecca Cosmetica.

5 Lancome Le Vernis in Pink Drip $38
One of the new colours from a nail range with staying power. This is a glorious shade _ feminine but not girly. Let your toes twinkle or make your fingers flash.
Lancome stockists.

6 Clarins Joli Rouge in Baby Rose $48
A nude rose from a selection of stay-true colours that use mango butter to ensure a moisturising shine. If you like something bolder, check out the signature shade Cupid Red.
From Clarins salons and stockists.